The Willows of Babylon

Maria Vorobyē is a writer working in the genres of fantasy and magical realism. Her books are distinguished by a deep development of the eras she depicts; therefore, fantastical assumptions blend harmoniously into the historical context, making her fast-paced, plot-driven works even more engaging and multi-layered. Two of her books have already been published by the Polyn’ Publishing House: the novel “Verbs of Babylon,” which received very good reviews, including from the famous vocalist and leader of the group “Melnitsa” (as well as a writer and scholar-linguist) Khelavisa, and the book “On the Reddish Field,” which earned the author the title of laureate of the “Best Magical Realism of 2025” award, as chosen by the magazine “World of Fantasy.”

We present in audio format the novel “Verbs of Babylon.” Shemhet is a priestess of the goddess of death and a Babylonian princess. She had to choose between serving the goddess and her personal life, which tore her apart from her beloved. But the Babylonian king is killed by his own brother, and Shemhet’s life changes instantly. The residents of Babylon are required to swear allegiance to the new ruler, or they will be executed. At the same time, plague and famine begin—omens of an impending natural disaster and the fall of a great kingdom. Amid a chain of tragic and mystical events, Shemhet must make the most important choice of her life. Whose duty is more important to her—those who are dead, or those who are alive? Listen to this captivating story!